Nestled in the San Luis Valley in southern Colorado, the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve is home to the tallest sand dunes in North America. These massive dunes, some rising over 750 feet, are a stunning sight against the backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The sand dunes here are not only an extraordinary natural wonder, but they offer countless adventures for visitors. Whether you’re sledding down the dunes, hiking to the summit of Star Dune, or enjoying a nighttime stargazing session, the sand dunes are a playground for all ages.
The formation of these towering sand dunes is a fascinating story. Scientists believe they began forming over a million years ago as wind carried sand from the San Juan Mountains and deposited it in this low valley. Over time, the unique wind patterns trapped the sand at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Range, creating the giant dunes we see today. What’s even more interesting is that the dunes are still shifting! The wind continues to shape and reshape the landscape, making each visit to the park a new experience.
One fun fact about the Great Sand Dunes: despite the dry appearance, Medano Creek flows at the base of the dunes. This seasonal creek is perfect for splashing around in the summer months, and its gentle waves mimic the ocean, creating a truly unique beach-like experience in the heart of Colorado!
Speaking of sand dunes, let’s journey east to the Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes in Michigan. These dunes are part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore along Lake Michigan. According to Native American legend, the dunes are shaped like a bear sleeping on the shore, with two small islands representing her cubs. These dunes, like those in Colorado, were formed by glacial activity and wind over thousands of years. Once a sanctuary for Native Americans and later a hub for European settlers, today Sleeping Bear Dunes offers visitors breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, miles of hiking trails, and the chance to explore some of the most beautiful freshwater dunes in the world.
Both the Great Sand Dunes of Colorado and the Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes in Michigan are reminders of nature’s power to create extraordinary landscapes that capture our imaginations.
